| Summary: | Evaluation of appropriate areas to introduce a closed-loop ground-source heat pump (GSHP) system in the case of a standard detached residence was conducted in Akita Plain, Japan. Depth of borehole heat exchanger (BHE) required to use a GSHP system was taken as the suitability index, which is simpler for the general public to understand and to promote the system. Heating and cooling loads of the standard size detached residence were calculated based on the 2013 Energy Conservation Standard. To estimate BHE depths and estimate a suitable area, identical 3D BHE models were constructed at 30 points in the plain. Required BHE depths were determined by performing heat exchange simulations at each location using the calculated loads and heat exchange rates. A suitability map showing distribution of the required BHE depths was prepared. BHE depths were shorter in the north-western area compared to the other parts, implying that the coastal lowlands in this area are more suitable for closed-loop system in the standard detached residences in terms of heat exchange performance as well as the cost reduction. Thickly distributed Quaternary System with higher thermal conductivity is contributing to shorter BHE depths. The suitability map is effective to adopt potential areas for the system installation in the standard detached Japanese residences.
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